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Blogs & Latest News

Trusted kidney health knowledge, explained simply.

Explore our collection of articles on kidney health, wellness, and lifestyle. From practical guides and expert insights to the latest updates in care, our goal is to share content that both informs and inspires. Browse through our posts to expand your knowledge and stay informed.

This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your doctor or nephrologist for information tailored to your specific health needs.

Person sitting calmly at a table with a balanced plate of food, including salmon, quinoa, broccoli, tomatoes, avocado, and lemon water, demonstrating mindful eating and portion control in a relaxed home setting.

Person sitting calmly at a table with a balanced plate of food, including salmon, quinoa, broccoli, tomatoes, avocado, and lemon water, demonstrating mindful eating and portion control in a relaxed home setting.

Mindful Eating: Simple Portion Control Tips to Stop Overeating and Feel Full

Mindful eating and portion control are two simple skills that can make healthy eating feel easier and more sustainable. This patient-friendly guide explains how to recognize hunger and fullness cues, avoid common overeating triggers, and build balanced meals without strict dieting or calorie counting.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

3 minutes ago5 min read

A brightly lit image showcasing various kidney-friendly foods spread across a wooden kitchen counter. An outline of a healthy kidney icon is featured on the right. The foods include fresh vegetables like broccoli, kale, and spinach, a bowl of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), whole grains in jars and a bowl (oats/barley), olive oil, tofu, black beans, avocado, walnuts, garlic, lemons, and lentils. A tablet is visible in the background.

A brightly lit image showcasing various kidney-friendly foods spread across a wooden kitchen counter. An outline of a healthy kidney icon is featured on the right. The foods include fresh vegetables like broccoli, kale, and spinach, a bowl of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), whole grains in jars and a bowl (oats/barley), olive oil, tofu, black beans, avocado, walnuts, garlic, lemons, and lentils. A tablet is visible in the background.

What Dietary Restrictions Do I Need to Follow If I Have Kidney Disease?

Living with CKD means prioritizing a plant-dominant diet to slow disease progression and protect your heart. Key changes include controlling your protein intake (lower for non-dialysis CKD, higher for dialysis) and strictly limiting sodium (under 2 grams per day). Potassium and phosphorus restrictions are highly individualized, often required only in later stages or if lab values are high. Always consult a renal dietitian to create a safe, personalized plan.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Jan 142 min read

A medical illustration showing a pair of glowing kidneys surrounded by various elements of weight management and kidney health. Clockwise from the top, these elements include: a Semaglutide injection pen, a tablet showing a graph of Kidney Strain vs. Body Weight, a body weight scale and measuring tape, a clipboard checking eligibility criteria, running shoes and a yoga mat, healthy foods (vegetables, berries, grains), and a silhouette of a person showing the digestive system. Arrows emphasize the connection between these elements and kidney function.

A medical illustration showing a pair of glowing kidneys surrounded by various elements of weight management and kidney health. Clockwise from the top, these elements include: a Semaglutide injection pen, a tablet showing a graph of Kidney Strain vs. Body Weight, a body weight scale and measuring tape, a clipboard checking eligibility criteria, running shoes and a yoga mat, healthy foods (vegetables, berries, grains), and a silhouette of a person showing the digestive system. Arrows emphasize the connection between these elements and kidney function.

Obesity and Chronic Kidney Disease: Why Weight Matters for Kidney Health

Obesity speeds the progression of chronic kidney disease and can even prevent patients from qualifying for a kidney transplant. The good news: weight loss—through lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery—can protect kidney function and improve long-term outcomes. Learn how obesity affects the kidneys and how Kidney MD can help.

Obesity & Weight Management

Jan 74 min read

A row of five white supplement bottles labeled with various kidney-related nutrients and a stylized kidney icon with circular arrows, suggesting kidney support. The bottles, from left to right, are labeled: Omega-3 (EPA + DHA), Vitamin D3, Calcium Citrate, Inulin Prebiotic Fiber, and CoQ10. The bottles sit on a desk in a clean, brightly lit office or clinic setting.

A row of five white supplement bottles labeled with various kidney-related nutrients and a stylized kidney icon with circular arrows, suggesting kidney support. The bottles, from left to right, are labeled: Omega-3 (EPA + DHA), Vitamin D3, Calcium Citrate, Inulin Prebiotic Fiber, and CoQ10. The bottles sit on a desk in a clean, brightly lit office or clinic setting.

What Supplements Should I Take to Support My Kidneys? An Evidence-Based Overview

The strongest evidence for kidney protection in CKD comes from whole, plant-forward dietary patterns, not individual supplements. While Calcium Citrate or Inulin may assist in specific clinical needs, most supplements like CoQ10 and antioxidants lack consistent evidence to slow CKD progression. Crucially, avoid unapproved herbal detox products as they can cause harm. Prioritize long-term diet and clinical management.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Jan 73 min read

A side-by-side medical illustration comparing Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Left Side (AKI): Shows a cross-section of a kidney with signs of sudden, acute distress. Surrounding icons include an alarm clock (sudden onset), a danger sign (medical emergency), an IV bag, a red cross (urgent care/hospitalization), a siren/blinking light, and a fast-forward button (rapid onset/progression). Right Side (CKD): Shows a cross-section of a kidney with signs of long-term damage. Surrounding icons focus on chronic management: a blood pressure cuff and gauge, a glucose monitor and a bowl of healthy food (lifestyle and diabetes/BP management), a calendar (slow, ongoing progression), prescription bottles (long-term medication), and people exercising (physical activity/lifestyle changes).

A side-by-side medical illustration comparing Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Left Side (AKI): Shows a cross-section of a kidney with signs of sudden, acute distress. Surrounding icons include an alarm clock (sudden onset), a danger sign (medical emergency), an IV bag, a red cross (urgent care/hospitalization), a siren/blinking light, and a fast-forward button (rapid onset/progression). Right Side (CKD): Shows a cross-section of a kidney with signs of long-term damage. Surrounding icons focus on chronic management: a blood pressure cuff and gauge, a glucose monitor and a bowl of healthy food (lifestyle and diabetes/BP management), a calendar (slow, ongoing progression), prescription bottles (long-term medication), and people exercising (physical activity/lifestyle changes).

How Is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Different From Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)?

Acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) may sound similar, but they are very different conditions. This easy-to-read comparison helps you understand how they differ, what causes them, and what steps you can take to protect your kidneys.

Nephrology & Kidney Health

Jan 73 min read

Comprehensive graphic showing evidence-based strategies to slow CKD progression and improve eGFR: Monitoring (blood pressure monitor, glucose meter), Diet (fruits, vegetables, nuts), Hydration (glass of water), Medications (bottles of Losartan/ARBs, Ozempic/GLP-1 RA, Dapagliflozin/SGLT2i, Finerenone), Lifestyle (running shoes), and Follow-up (calendar with appointment reminder). The central kidney diagram illustrates improved fluid and blood flow.

Comprehensive graphic showing evidence-based strategies to slow CKD progression and improve eGFR: Monitoring (blood pressure monitor, glucose meter), Diet (fruits, vegetables, nuts), Hydration (glass of water), Medications (bottles of Losartan/ARBs, Ozempic/GLP-1 RA, Dapagliflozin/SGLT2i, Finerenone), Lifestyle (running shoes), and Follow-up (calendar with appointment reminder). The central kidney diagram illustrates improved fluid and blood flow.

Is CKD Reversible? Can My Kidney Function Improve?

CKD cannot be fully reversed, but kidney function can improve when reversible factors are treated. With the right steps, many patients stabilize their CKD and avoid dialysis. Here’s what actually helps.

Nephrology & Kidney Health

Jan 74 min read

An illustration of human kidneys surrounded by a variety of plant-based foods including kale, spinach, lentils, berries, apples, nuts, and olive oil.

An illustration of human kidneys surrounded by a variety of plant-based foods including kale, spinach, lentils, berries, apples, nuts, and olive oil.

Plant-Based Diets and Kidney Disease: What You Need to Know

Plant-based diets are generally safe for most people with chronic kidney disease. High-quality patterns can slow disease progression and lower mortality. While potassium is a common fear, whole plants are often safer than processed foods. These diets also help manage phosphorus and reduce inflammation. Working with a renal dietitian is key to ensuring proper nutrient intake and individualized care.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Jan 74 min read

A bright, modern kitchen counter features a selection of healthy, colorful foods (berries, avocado, spinach, bell peppers), a blood pressure monitor, and a water bottle. Above the food, a glowing digital overlay shows a cross-section of the kidneys with icons representing physical activity and exercise, symbolizing the connection between lifestyle and kidney health.

A bright, modern kitchen counter features a selection of healthy, colorful foods (berries, avocado, spinach, bell peppers), a blood pressure monitor, and a water bottle. Above the food, a glowing digital overlay shows a cross-section of the kidneys with icons representing physical activity and exercise, symbolizing the connection between lifestyle and kidney health.

How to Slow Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Progression: A Practical, Patient-Friendly Guide

Preventing chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression is possible with the right approach. This guide explains how lifestyle changes, blood pressure and diabetes control, and newer medications—such as SGLT2 inhibitors and finerenone—work together to protect your kidneys.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 24, 20253 min read

A futuristic, cyan-blue, glowing diagram of the two kidneys, ureters, and bladder floating in a modern medical imaging suite. In the background, a screen displays an ultrasound image and a large CT or MRI machine is visible, illustrating the types of technology used for renal imaging.

A futuristic, cyan-blue, glowing diagram of the two kidneys, ureters, and bladder floating in a modern medical imaging suite. In the background, a screen displays an ultrasound image and a large CT or MRI machine is visible, illustrating the types of technology used for renal imaging.

Understanding Renal Imaging: How We Look Inside Your Kidneys

Renal imaging uses safe, non-invasive tests such as ultrasound, CT, MRI, and nuclear scans to visualize kidney structure and function. Learn when these studies are recommended, how they work, and how they help protect long-term kidney health.

Nephrology & Kidney Health

Dec 17, 20254 min read

A vibrant, photorealistic still life featuring a wide variety of fresh, minimally processed Mediterranean diet foods spread across a wooden kitchen table. The display includes whole-grain bread, baskets of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and leafy greens, a plate of cooked salmon, nuts and seeds, chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil in a clear pitcher, and colorful fruits like grapes, berries, and oranges. Small icons float above the food, representing the health benefits for the heart, liver, and kidneys.

A vibrant, photorealistic still life featuring a wide variety of fresh, minimally processed Mediterranean diet foods spread across a wooden kitchen table. The display includes whole-grain bread, baskets of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and leafy greens, a plate of cooked salmon, nuts and seeds, chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil in a clear pitcher, and colorful fruits like grapes, berries, and oranges. Small icons float above the food, representing the health benefits for the heart, liver, and kidneys.

The Mediterranean Diet: One of the Most Evidence-Based Approaches for Heart, Metabolic, Kidney, and Liver Health

The Mediterranean diet is a consistently validated, plant-forward eating pattern—not a trend. Focusing on whole grains, olive oil, and beans, it offers wide-ranging benefits. It is highly effective for protecting your heart (reducing the risk of stroke/heart attack), improving metabolic health, and supporting your liver and kidneys. This sustainable approach supports long-term health without extreme restriction.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 17, 20254 min read

A photorealistic image of a smiling, healthy couple (a man and a woman in athletic wear) standing in a bright, modern kitchen. On the marble counter in front of them is a comprehensive arrangement of kidney-friendly items: a basket of fresh produce (apples, peppers), salmon, eggs, olive oil, a blood pressure monitor, and a small dumbbell. A glowing, stylized cross with a pair of kidneys overlaid on the woman's torso emphasizes the importance of kidney health and medical care.

A photorealistic image of a smiling, healthy couple (a man and a woman in athletic wear) standing in a bright, modern kitchen. On the marble counter in front of them is a comprehensive arrangement of kidney-friendly items: a basket of fresh produce (apples, peppers), salmon, eggs, olive oil, a blood pressure monitor, and a small dumbbell. A glowing, stylized cross with a pair of kidneys overlaid on the woman's torso emphasizes the importance of kidney health and medical care.

What Is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and How Does It Affect Daily Life?

A CKD diagnosis is scary, but the fact is most people never need dialysis. CKD progression is slow, and you are in control of the speed. By embracing simple habits—like smart eating, staying active, and taking your prescribed medications—you protect your kidneys and reduce heart risks. Knowledge is power. Start making those small, steady changes today.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 9, 20253 min read

A middle-aged man with a worried expression sits at a kitchen table, resting his chin on his hand. A paper labeled "LABORATORY RESULTS" is in front of him. He is looking out the window, appearing reflective or concerned about his chronic kidney disease diagnosis.

A middle-aged man with a worried expression sits at a kitchen table, resting his chin on his hand. A paper labeled "LABORATORY RESULTS" is in front of him. He is looking out the window, appearing reflective or concerned about his chronic kidney disease diagnosis.

I Have Chronic Kidney Disease — Do I Need Dialysis?

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) does NOT automatically mean dialysis. Learn the CKD stages, the key uremic symptoms, and the personalized risk factors doctors use to determine if and when dialysis is necessary. Most patients never need it!

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Dec 3, 20252 min read

A close-up, brightly lit photograph of various nutritional supplements and natural ingredients on a white wooden surface. The supplements include amber fish oil capsules and beige herbal or vitamin capsules placed in wooden spoons, and scattered pink and yellow vitamin tablets. In the background are a mortar and pestle containing green herbs (like mint), and a small amber dropper bottle, suggesting a focus on natural health, remedies, and wellness.

A close-up, brightly lit photograph of various nutritional supplements and natural ingredients on a white wooden surface. The supplements include amber fish oil capsules and beige herbal or vitamin capsules placed in wooden spoons, and scattered pink and yellow vitamin tablets. In the background are a mortar and pestle containing green herbs (like mint), and a small amber dropper bottle, suggesting a focus on natural health, remedies, and wellness.

Supplements: Helpful or Hype?

Walk down any aisle and you’ll find thousands of supplements. But which ones work, and are they safe for my kidneys? Supplements are not replacements for food or medical care. Before starting one, ask: Do I need this, is there evidence it works, and could it harm my kidneys or interact with my medications? Remember: “Natural” doesn’t always mean safe—especially if you have kidney disease. Let's separate science from marketing to ensure your choices are informed and kidney-s

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 25, 20253 min read

A person with curly hair sits at a wooden table, illuminated by a warm lamp light, looking down intently at a document that appears to be lab results labeled 'Kidney Function Panel Results.' A second person's hand rests gently on the first person's forearm in a gesture of support and comfort. The scene suggests a serious, emotional moment of processing difficult health news.

A person with curly hair sits at a wooden table, illuminated by a warm lamp light, looking down intently at a document that appears to be lab results labeled 'Kidney Function Panel Results.' A second person's hand rests gently on the first person's forearm in a gesture of support and comfort. The scene suggests a serious, emotional moment of processing difficult health news.

Overwhelmed by a CKD Diagnosis? What It Means and How to Navigate the Next Steps

Many individuals recall the exact moment they were informed, “You have chronic kidney disease.” It is common to feel shock, anxiety, or confusion when facing this diagnosis. CKD doesn't just impact lab results—it influences your emotional wellbeing, routines, and future planning. If you are feeling overwhelmed by unfamiliar terms like eGFR, stages, or proteinuria, please know that this is normal. Common emotional responses include fear about future function and overwhelm re

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 25, 20254 min read

A smiling female pharmacist in a white lab coat handing a prescription bag to a male patient across a counter in a pharmacy. Shelves of various medications are blurred in the background, illustrating safe dispensing of medication.

A smiling female pharmacist in a white lab coat handing a prescription bag to a male patient across a counter in a pharmacy. Shelves of various medications are blurred in the background, illustrating safe dispensing of medication.

Safe Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications for People with Kidney Disease

If you have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), common OTC drugs like Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) and Naproxen (Aleve) pose a high risk of kidney damage. This guide details which medications to avoid and which are generally safer (like Acetaminophen/Tylenol) when used correctly. Learn essential safety tips, including why you must read labels carefully and always consult your nephrologist or pharmacist before taking anything new.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 19, 20255 min read

A diverse collection of whole foods, including fish, meat, dairy (milk, cheese), eggs, beans, nuts, and leafy green vegetables, arranged on a kitchen counter to represent a balanced diet rich in essential minerals.

A diverse collection of whole foods, including fish, meat, dairy (milk, cheese), eggs, beans, nuts, and leafy green vegetables, arranged on a kitchen counter to represent a balanced diet rich in essential minerals.

The Mineral Mix: Calcium, Magnesium, Iron & More

The Mineral Mix: Calcium, Magnesium, Iron & More Vitamins are often discussed, but minerals are the quiet heroes that build bones, support muscles, and balance fluids. When you have kidney disease, managing minerals like Potassium and Phosphorus becomes critical, as imbalances can lead to serious health issues. Learn the best food sources for essential minerals like Iron and Magnesium, and understand which supplements you should never take without specific lab guidance from

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 19, 20253 min read

A young, diverse couple is happily seated in a bright kitchen setting. They are both holding glasses of water and smiling at each other. On the counter, there is a glass pitcher of water, a clear turquoise bottle labeled "AquaZen+ Alkaline Water (pH 9.5)," and a metallic bottle labeled "HydroGen+ Hydrogen Water," illustrating the comparison between different types of filtered water.

A young, diverse couple is happily seated in a bright kitchen setting. They are both holding glasses of water and smiling at each other. On the counter, there is a glass pitcher of water, a clear turquoise bottle labeled "AquaZen+ Alkaline Water (pH 9.5)," and a metallic bottle labeled "HydroGen+ Hydrogen Water," illustrating the comparison between different types of filtered water.

Hydrogen Water Benefits, Risks, and Safety: Is Hydrogen Water Better Than Regular or Alkaline Water?

Is Hydrogen Water worth the wellness hype? Discover the potential antioxidant benefits and what the science says about exercise recovery and metabolism. We break down how Hydrogen Water compares to alkaline or regular water, and review the safety profile—including the crucial risks for those with CKD or electrolyte issues. Get the facts before you drink!

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 12, 20253 min read

Colorful foods rich in vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K — showing natural sources of essential nutrients for overall and kidney health.

Colorful foods rich in vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K — showing natural sources of essential nutrients for overall and kidney health.

The ABCs of Vitamins: What Each One Does for Your Body

Vitamins are essential for everything from energy and immunity to bone strength and nerve function. But what exactly do Vitamin A, the B-complex, and Vitamin D do? We break down the roles, food sources, and specialized considerations for each essential vitamin. Crucially, learn why high doses of Vitamins A, C, and E can be risky for people with CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease), and who truly benefits from supplementation (like vegans or bariatric patients).

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 12, 20253 min read

An older man seated on a couch testing his blood sugar with a glucometer, next to bottles of pills and a blood pressure monitor. A graphic of the kidneys is shown in the corner, representing Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD).

An older man seated on a couch testing his blood sugar with a glucometer, next to bottles of pills and a blood pressure monitor. A graphic of the kidneys is shown in the corner, representing Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD).

Understanding Diabetic Kidney Disease

Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) is the most common cause of kidney failure, but it's not inevitable. Learn the two most powerful steps you can take today: rigorous control of blood sugar (A1C) and blood pressure (under 130/80 mm Hg). We detail how high blood pressure creates a vicious cycle of damage and explain the modern, kidney-protective medications (SGLT2 inhibitors and ARBs/ACE inhibitors) that can help you delay or prevent kidney damage.

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 12, 20253 min read

A white bottle of "Multivitamins" surrounded by a variety of colorful, nutrient-dense foods, including salmon, raspberries, blueberries, banana, orange, apple, oats, and almonds, displayed on a white surface.

A white bottle of "Multivitamins" surrounded by a variety of colorful, nutrient-dense foods, including salmon, raspberries, blueberries, banana, orange, apple, oats, and almonds, displayed on a white surface.

💊 Should I Take a Multivitamin?

Walk into any pharmacy and you'll see aisles of supplements, but for most healthy adults, a daily multivitamin isn't necessary—a balanced diet usually provides enough. However, a multivitamin can be a vital safety net for those with restrictive diets, those taking GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic or Wegovy), or specific groups like seniors and pregnant women. Learn why certain vitamins require extra monitoring in people with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and why consistency mat

Healthy Habits & Overall Wellness

Nov 5, 20254 min read

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